About the Webinar: Notice from the Prosecution that biological evidence has been recovered from the scene of an alleged crime which “matches” the person you represent can strike disappointment in even the most seasoned trial lawyer. Some believe the presence of a DNA “match” means the defense should try to work out the best plea deal possible. This belief is based upon the idea that DNA evidence cannot be effectively challenged. DNA is held out as the Gold Standard in identification evidence; a Smoking Gun. While successfully challenging DNA testimony can be a difficult hurdle to overcome in developing a successful defense, it is not impossible. This presentation will provide attorneys with a solid understanding of DNA evidence and how to understand the reports provided by the crime lab. We will discuss what to look for when you are informed there is biological evidence reported as linking your client to a crime. Attendees will learn about different approaches to challenging DNA evidence both at the pre–trial and trial stages of a case. This presentation will provide lawyers the tools to develop a strong, if not successful defense when the Government seeks to present DNA testimony against your client.

About the Faculty:
Andre Vitale previously served as Special Assistant Public Defender, Trial lawyer, and Training Director for 18 plus years at the Monroe County Public Defender’s Office (Rochester, NY). Andre has extensive experience handling the most difficult and complex cases as a trial lawyer having litigated more than 90 jury trials. He has developed an expertise in defending sex cases and challenging DNA evidence. Andre has used the skills and knowledge he gained in the courtroom to develop innovative training programs, designed to help attorneys enhance their legal skills. Through his training programs, Andre seeks to help both new and more experienced lawyers enhance their legal knowledge as well as build confidence in their ability, inspiring them to serve as client–centered, fearless, and relentless advocates. One program he developed which focuses on Defending a Sex Case has been used by the Montana Office of the State Defender, the Missouri State Public Defender’s Office, and the New Jersey Office of the Public Defender to train attorneys in those states. Andre is on the faculty of Gideon’s Promise (gideonspromise.org) and Harvard Law School’s Criminal Justice Institute Trial Advocacy Workshop. He has also served on the faculty of the Bronx Defenders’ Trial Academy; the Louisiana Public Defender Training Institute; the Litigation and Persuasion Institute (Department of Public Advocacy, Kentucky);, the Trial Litigation Institute (New Jersey State Defender); the ADC Trial Advocacy Program (Colorado State Defender), Legal Aid Society’s (NYC) DNA Defense College, and the Litigation Talent Academy in King County before joining their team as Assistant Training Director. Andre is both a presenter and frequent blog contributor for the National Association of Public Defense (publicdefenders.us), where he also serves as a member the Racial Justice Committee. He is a former Board Member with the New York State Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NYSACDL), having served as Vice President, as well as Chair of both their CLE and Indigent Defense Committees. Due to his passion and commitment to client–centered representation, Andre has received the Kevin Andersen Award by the New York State Defender’s Association (NYSDA) and the Denison Ray Award by the New York State Bar Association. In addition to his legal accomplishments, Andre has finished nineteen marathons.

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NAPD News

July 1, 2018: General Registration opens for the “WE THE DEFENDERS” TRAINING CONFERENCE, November 26-29, 2018, Indianapolis, IN

Due to overwhelming demand, NAPD will again offer this comprehensive Investigator and Social Worker/Sentencing Advocate training experience! The program will include one track for Investigators and a separate track for Social Worker/Sentencing Advocates. Hear from nationally recognized experts who will share their knowledge on a wide range of topics relevant to the work you do each and every day. Network with other criminal defense practitioners from around the country and find your tribe. Registration closes Septemebr 3.
This one of a kind conference is developed through surveys of the registrants. You have a say in what sessions are offered and will have multiple options during the conference.
Click here to watch as the schedule develops based on your suggestions.
Click here to see the faculty list.
Click here to register for the Investigator Conference Track.
Click here to register for the Social Worker/Sentencing Advocate Conference Track.
Click here to make a hotel reservation at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown.

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January 23, 2018: In response to US Attorney General Jeff Session's reversal of prior policy on the imposition of fines and fees for criminal defendants, NAPD submitted the following letter on behalf of the public defender community. You can read the letter HERE
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January 17, 2018: The 2018 NAPD Investigators Conference and 2018 Social Workers & Sentencing Advocates Institute (March 26-29, 2018 in Denver, CO) are now at full capacity and closed for registration. A wait list is being developed.
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November 28, 2017: NAPD has uploaded videos of the presentations from the 2017 NAPD Workloads Conference in St. Louis (held November 17-18). Members can access these valuable presentations on MyGideon by logging into their NAPD account.
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